The Mayors Wellness Campaign picked 45 towns across New Jersey as “Healthy Town” recipients for 2025. The Quality Institute runs this program with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. It honors communities that tackle health through efforts aimed at boosting physical activity access, nutritious foods, safe spaces, and mental health support.
Seven of these towns sit in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Asbury Park, Borough of Red Bank, Freehold Township, and The City of Long Branch represent Monmouth County. Borough of Bay Head, Township of Brick, and Township of Stafford earned the designation from Ocean County.
Asbury Park scored this honor for the sixth time. Strong partnerships bring residents, health care providers, nonprofits, and city leaders together for year-round programs, according to the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute. Food access and health equity matter here. The Library Community Fridge and Meals with Love expand fresh food availability for children and families.
Freehold Township grabbed its first designation through a data-driven approach and cross-sector work. Officials completed a Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan. They held focus groups, interviews and Spanish-language sessions to gather resident input. Food and school supply drives support ALICE families based on what the community needs.
The City of Long Branch got the designation for the second year running. Their program centers on intergenerational activities, opportunities for individuals with disabilities, health screenings and evaluation. Fun Days and City Concerts bring all ages together while sharing wellness resources.
Township of Brick advanced to its first designation in 2025. Youth attend the Leadership Conference. Seniors ride a dedicated dialysis bus. The municipality works to make wellness opportunities available across all age groups.
According to app.com, the full list includes communities from across the state, spanning Bass River Township to the Village of Ridgewood. City of Paterson, Edison Township, Municipality of Princeton, and Township of Montclair also made the list.
